April 18 in American History

April 18, 1775 — Paul Revere's midnight ride

Silversmith Paul Revere and others rode through the Massachusetts night to warn that British troops were marching on Lexington and Concord — "The regulars are coming out!" Their alarm let the militia gather in time to meet the British at dawn. The next morning would bring "the shot heard round the world" and the Revolution's first battle.

Common Questions

What happened on April 18 in American history?

In 1775: Paul Revere's midnight ride. Silversmith Paul Revere and others rode through the Massachusetts night to warn that British troops were marching on Lexington and Concord — "The regulars are coming out!" Their alarm let the militia gather in time to meet the British at dawn.

Why is April 18 significant?

Silversmith Paul Revere and others rode through the Massachusetts night to warn that British troops were marching on Lexington and Concord — "The regulars are coming out!" Their alarm let the militia gather in time to meet the British at dawn. The next morning would bring "the shot heard round the world" and the Revolution's first battle.

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Benjamin Franklin diesthe shot heard round the world